The Congress of the United States of America never ceases to amaze me. I only heard snippets of the grilling of oil company executives, but it seems to me it is a classic example of the "pot calling the kettle black."
Do I wish I had invested in oil rather than airlines? Yes! But oil company executives don't set the price of oil --speculators do. Isn't our whole economy based on the premise that one charges what the market will bear? That's Capitalism. It's better than Socialism, right! And these people in Congress who do NOTHING but talk (there have been 45 such excursions into "gas" pricing without so much as one change in law or any attempt to allow for the increase in production of domestic oil and refinery capabilities) are the same folks who keep raising their own salary and benefits, spending your money on barrels of pork that benefit the few, using your grand-children's income to pay entitlements today, and showing up for work a couple of days a week between endless vacations and junkets abroad, or of course, not at all (except to pick up a paycheck) if running for some other office.
If God ran His personal business in this fashion, He would be all talk and no blessing. Instead He keeps lavishing His grace on our Nation while we seemingly try to shut Him out at every turn.
Is it hot in here?
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
In Good Faith
I understand that Israel and Syria are conducting "talks" through an intermediary, Turkey. Associated Press reported, In statements issued minutes apart, the two governments said they "have declared their intent to conduct these talks in good faith and with an open mind," with a goal of reaching "a comprehensive peace."
Isn't that God's plan for people? Each individual is "at war" with God, and the only resolution is through the intermediary Jesus Christ who through His sacrificial death provides for "peace with God."
I don't know if Israel and her enemies will every reach a comprehensive peace, but I do know that no one has to continue to be separated from God. Jesus Christ has provided and open door through which one may, by faith, be reconciled to God. If you have not made that step of faith, today would be a good time.
Isn't that God's plan for people? Each individual is "at war" with God, and the only resolution is through the intermediary Jesus Christ who through His sacrificial death provides for "peace with God."
I don't know if Israel and her enemies will every reach a comprehensive peace, but I do know that no one has to continue to be separated from God. Jesus Christ has provided and open door through which one may, by faith, be reconciled to God. If you have not made that step of faith, today would be a good time.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Increase? Decrease?
Here a paragraph from an Associated Press story:
Energy prices fell by 0.2 percent in April after a 2.9 percent surge in March. The PPI report showed that gasoline costs fell by 4.6 percent. However, that decline reflected the government's seasonal adjustment methods. Since gasoline prices rose less than they usually do in April, that translated into a decline in the government's figures.
While I am confident every Economist understands this thinking, I admit I am a little fuzzy. Does it say that because the prices rose less than they normally do, that means they actually went down?
Now the reason that is important to me is because my Preacher asked me to study the trends in Worship attendance at our Church. So I have been trying to be creative in my approach. I'm thinking. . .that if attendance went down less in May than it normally does, that would mean we actually had an increase in Worship attendance. So this Summer, when attendance goes down due to vacations, or company coming, or it being too hot to pray, even if our attendance drops below what we normally have from a numbers perspective, we will actually be able to report an increase in attendance for this Summer because it is more than what was less than last time we reported more.
Yep, I think the preacher is going to like this thinking!
Energy prices fell by 0.2 percent in April after a 2.9 percent surge in March. The PPI report showed that gasoline costs fell by 4.6 percent. However, that decline reflected the government's seasonal adjustment methods. Since gasoline prices rose less than they usually do in April, that translated into a decline in the government's figures.
While I am confident every Economist understands this thinking, I admit I am a little fuzzy. Does it say that because the prices rose less than they normally do, that means they actually went down?
Now the reason that is important to me is because my Preacher asked me to study the trends in Worship attendance at our Church. So I have been trying to be creative in my approach. I'm thinking. . .that if attendance went down less in May than it normally does, that would mean we actually had an increase in Worship attendance. So this Summer, when attendance goes down due to vacations, or company coming, or it being too hot to pray, even if our attendance drops below what we normally have from a numbers perspective, we will actually be able to report an increase in attendance for this Summer because it is more than what was less than last time we reported more.
Yep, I think the preacher is going to like this thinking!
Monday, May 19, 2008
A Million Dollar Bill
I've got a one million dollar bill on my desk. It has a picture of Ronald Reagan on it. Of course it is an advertising piece. It it a Gospel tract (of sorts) that someone handed to me on the street.
Don't you wish we had another Ronald Reagan in the wings ready to lead our country? Maybe you were not a Reagan fan, or maybe you think he was not a great President. That's OK. Everybody is entitled to their opinion.
One thing that is true, however, is that he had a handle on the problems that faced our nation, and during his tenure, some wonderful results were seen and received by the people of the United States.
I don't personally see that kind of leadership on the current political scene. Perhaps I am blind, or at least in need of glasses, but one thing I know for sure; if we ever needed to pray for our nation and its leadership, it is now. Pray for those in office. Pray for those who will be in office with the next election. Pray like you have never prayed before from a political perspective. I am confident that God is going to allow one of the current candidates to win the Presidency (even thought I keep praying otherwise).
Don't you wish we had another Ronald Reagan in the wings ready to lead our country? Maybe you were not a Reagan fan, or maybe you think he was not a great President. That's OK. Everybody is entitled to their opinion.
One thing that is true, however, is that he had a handle on the problems that faced our nation, and during his tenure, some wonderful results were seen and received by the people of the United States.
I don't personally see that kind of leadership on the current political scene. Perhaps I am blind, or at least in need of glasses, but one thing I know for sure; if we ever needed to pray for our nation and its leadership, it is now. Pray for those in office. Pray for those who will be in office with the next election. Pray like you have never prayed before from a political perspective. I am confident that God is going to allow one of the current candidates to win the Presidency (even thought I keep praying otherwise).
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Fundamental Change
LISA LEFF, Associated Press Writer, reported: SAN FRANCISCO - In a monumental victory for the gay rights movement, the California Supreme Court overturned a voter-approved ban on gay marriage Thursday in a ruling that would allow same-sex couples in the nation's biggest state to tie the knot.
It's a sad day in the neighborhood. Here's why. Our forefathers, the framers of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were careful to establish a democratic republic and not an oligarchy. Yet, every year (or less) we move toward the polar opposite of what they envisioned and what we have celebrated all these years since the founding of our great nation.
Now, those who are in positions of authority - the California Supreme Court, the Supreme Court of the United States, and other Courts in other places, have decided that it is their job to "legislate from the bench" and override the will of the public and the electorate. Who knows if this ruling, and others in many places around our country, and, of course, in Washington, D. C., will stand up. But the drift is on and moving ever forward. When we become an oligarchy, you might want to make sure you are in the right "class."
If you're concerned about my take on the issue of "gay marriage" here is that tidbit: God must be running his patience in hyper-drive to keep from destroying this nation, given that "Sodom and Gomorrha" thing.
It's a sad day in the neighborhood. Here's why. Our forefathers, the framers of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution were careful to establish a democratic republic and not an oligarchy. Yet, every year (or less) we move toward the polar opposite of what they envisioned and what we have celebrated all these years since the founding of our great nation.
Now, those who are in positions of authority - the California Supreme Court, the Supreme Court of the United States, and other Courts in other places, have decided that it is their job to "legislate from the bench" and override the will of the public and the electorate. Who knows if this ruling, and others in many places around our country, and, of course, in Washington, D. C., will stand up. But the drift is on and moving ever forward. When we become an oligarchy, you might want to make sure you are in the right "class."
If you're concerned about my take on the issue of "gay marriage" here is that tidbit: God must be running his patience in hyper-drive to keep from destroying this nation, given that "Sodom and Gomorrha" thing.
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
The End Is Near
I've been thinking about getting one of those "sandwich board" signs that says, "The End Is Near," and standing on the corner, or walking up and down in front of the mall.
I've been hearing about the bad economy, taking a look at our national debt, recognizing that entitlement programs (Social Security is my focus) are funded out of the imagination, hearing all the Presidential candidates promising to raise taxes, cut services, ignore illegal immigration, and those in power encouraging everyone to produce more oil except us (which I think will get the price of gasoline up to around $8.47 per gallon), and recognizing that the only thing growing faster than immorality in the United States is the birthrate in China and India (they should have enough people to take over the World in about twenty minutes).
Today, I got this quote in my e-mail: “Well, the conference met today and appointed a commission to meet tomorrow and appoint a delegation which will eventually appoint a subcommittee to draw up ways and means of finding out what to start with first.” —Will Rogers
I'm beginning to believe that if things don't improve fast, our only resort will be to turn back to God.
I've been hearing about the bad economy, taking a look at our national debt, recognizing that entitlement programs (Social Security is my focus) are funded out of the imagination, hearing all the Presidential candidates promising to raise taxes, cut services, ignore illegal immigration, and those in power encouraging everyone to produce more oil except us (which I think will get the price of gasoline up to around $8.47 per gallon), and recognizing that the only thing growing faster than immorality in the United States is the birthrate in China and India (they should have enough people to take over the World in about twenty minutes).
Today, I got this quote in my e-mail: “Well, the conference met today and appointed a commission to meet tomorrow and appoint a delegation which will eventually appoint a subcommittee to draw up ways and means of finding out what to start with first.” —Will Rogers
I'm beginning to believe that if things don't improve fast, our only resort will be to turn back to God.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Force Them To Take It!
"You have to think it through — do you want to secure an area of the country by military force? What kinds of potential security risks would that create?" says Jan Egeland, the former U.N. emergency relief coordinator. "I can't imagine any humanitarian organization wanting to shoot their way in with food."
This quote from a CNN news source points up a real sticky problem. Here's the gist:
The disaster in Burma presents the world with perhaps its most serious humanitarian crisis since the 2004 Asian tsunami. By most reliable estimates, close to 100,000 people are dead. Delays in delivering relief to the victims, the inaccessibility of the stricken areas and the poor state of Burma's infrastructure and health systems mean that number is sure to rise. With as many as 1 million people still at risk, it is conceivable that the death toll will, within days, approach that of the entire number of civilians killed in the genocide in Darfur.
This quote from a CNN news source points up a real sticky problem. Here's the gist:
The disaster in Burma presents the world with perhaps its most serious humanitarian crisis since the 2004 Asian tsunami. By most reliable estimates, close to 100,000 people are dead. Delays in delivering relief to the victims, the inaccessibility of the stricken areas and the poor state of Burma's infrastructure and health systems mean that number is sure to rise. With as many as 1 million people still at risk, it is conceivable that the death toll will, within days, approach that of the entire number of civilians killed in the genocide in Darfur.
The military regime that runs Burma has imposed so many conditions on those who would actually deliver it that barely a trickle has made it through. That's why it's time to consider a more serious option: invading Burma. Some observers, including former USAID director Andrew Natsios, have called on the U.S. to unilaterally begin air drops to the Burmese people regardless of what the junta says.
That means we are going to force them to take our aid, whether they want it or not. After all it would save lives and every life is precious. Isn't that the same position the Church of Jesus Christ is in today. We have the "life-saving" goods and the "World" does not want it. Barely a trickle of the Good News is getting through. It's easy to just ignore the dying when they are not on your doorstep. But just as we have a mandate to provide aid to those who have physical need, so the Church has the commission to meet the spiritual need of all by sharing the Good News far and wide. We can't force anyone to take it, but we can find those holes (for the trickle) and get it done when and where we can.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Who's In Charge?
As I write this note, in the Spring in North Texas, another storm is blowing in and "severe" weather is forecast for later today. As always, there have been several storms already and the season has a while to run.
I believe in being careful, taking precautions, getting prepared for the worst eventualities. What I don't believe in is being afraid. Being afraid means I do not know who is in charge of the weather. Being afraid means I am not sure God will always do what is best and right for me. I hope it is never best for me to suffer the loss of my home or possessions, or to be injured in some manner, but I trust that God is absolute in His sovereign power to bring events to pass or passover me.
Again, I listen for the storm warning, the emergency siren, and keep the radio handy. But, I am not afraid. Even though "I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger for He is with me." (Psalm 23:4a HCSB)
I believe in being careful, taking precautions, getting prepared for the worst eventualities. What I don't believe in is being afraid. Being afraid means I do not know who is in charge of the weather. Being afraid means I am not sure God will always do what is best and right for me. I hope it is never best for me to suffer the loss of my home or possessions, or to be injured in some manner, but I trust that God is absolute in His sovereign power to bring events to pass or passover me.
Again, I listen for the storm warning, the emergency siren, and keep the radio handy. But, I am not afraid. Even though "I go through the darkest valley, I fear no danger for He is with me." (Psalm 23:4a HCSB)
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Home! At Last.
What does someone with $50 Billion do when they need new digs?
Build a billion dollar home of course! Below, thanks to Mumbai Mirror are some of the specs:
According to the plan, the house will rise to a height of 173.12 meters, equivalent to that of a regular 60-story residential building. However, (Mukesh Ambani, owner) will have only 27 stories in all, which means each floor will have a ceiling considerably higher than the current average of nearly three meters.
Six floors for parking including space for a total of 168 ‘imported’ cars. A floor for car maintenance is included. An entertainment floor will have an entertainment centre comprising a mini-theatre with a seating capacity of 50. The rooftop of the mini-theatre will serve as a garden, and immediately above that, three more balconies with terrace gardens.
The ‘health’ floor will provide a ‘refuge’ floor - meant to be used for rescue in emergencies. One of these will have facilities for athletics and a swimming pool, while the other will have a health club complete with the latest gym equipment.
For guests there will be a two-story glass-fronted apartment for the Ambani family’s guests above the health floors. One more refuge floor and one floor for mechanical works will be built on top of these apartments.
The four floors at the top, that will provide a view of the Arabian Sea and a superb view of the city’s skyline, will be for Mukesh, his wife Neeta, their three children and Mukesh’s mother Kokilaben.
The plan states that three helipads are to be built on the top floor terrace.
The place will require 600 full time staff to keep it running on a day to day basis!
I know we’ve all seen Trump’s gold encrusted New York apartment, but this guy is in another league entirely.
And I thought my plans for a 1800 sq. ft. log cabin were extravagant! But it's all nothing when compared to the home that awaits those who will be joining the Lord God of Heaven and Earth for eternity. I'll wager Mr. Ambami hasn't prepared for that at all.
Have you?
Build a billion dollar home of course! Below, thanks to Mumbai Mirror are some of the specs:
According to the plan, the house will rise to a height of 173.12 meters, equivalent to that of a regular 60-story residential building. However, (Mukesh Ambani, owner) will have only 27 stories in all, which means each floor will have a ceiling considerably higher than the current average of nearly three meters.
Six floors for parking including space for a total of 168 ‘imported’ cars. A floor for car maintenance is included. An entertainment floor will have an entertainment centre comprising a mini-theatre with a seating capacity of 50. The rooftop of the mini-theatre will serve as a garden, and immediately above that, three more balconies with terrace gardens.
The ‘health’ floor will provide a ‘refuge’ floor - meant to be used for rescue in emergencies. One of these will have facilities for athletics and a swimming pool, while the other will have a health club complete with the latest gym equipment.
For guests there will be a two-story glass-fronted apartment for the Ambani family’s guests above the health floors. One more refuge floor and one floor for mechanical works will be built on top of these apartments.
The four floors at the top, that will provide a view of the Arabian Sea and a superb view of the city’s skyline, will be for Mukesh, his wife Neeta, their three children and Mukesh’s mother Kokilaben.
The plan states that three helipads are to be built on the top floor terrace.
The place will require 600 full time staff to keep it running on a day to day basis!
I know we’ve all seen Trump’s gold encrusted New York apartment, but this guy is in another league entirely.
And I thought my plans for a 1800 sq. ft. log cabin were extravagant! But it's all nothing when compared to the home that awaits those who will be joining the Lord God of Heaven and Earth for eternity. I'll wager Mr. Ambami hasn't prepared for that at all.
Have you?
Monday, May 5, 2008
Engineered To Perform
After yesterday's message with the Preacher using his Harley-Davidson motorcycle as the prop for making a comparison between the engineering which make a Harley do what a Harley does, and that which God does to make His Church do what it is supposed to (accomplish its task), I am thinking I need to get my part RIGHT. If I am really vital to the operation, then perhaps I need to be regular in my attendance, studied in God's Word, and "prayed-up" as if everything depended on me.
It is vital to know what the Church is designed to accomplish. We may have lost sight of that in the attempt to market the Church as if it were a commodity. Just because it looks pretty or even sounds good, it is not necessarily true that it is succeeding in being the Body of Christ in the World.
Lots of Churches need a "tune-up." Don't freelance! Use the manual. Get it right. A correctly engineered Body of believers is an awesome force in a dying world.
It is vital to know what the Church is designed to accomplish. We may have lost sight of that in the attempt to market the Church as if it were a commodity. Just because it looks pretty or even sounds good, it is not necessarily true that it is succeeding in being the Body of Christ in the World.
Lots of Churches need a "tune-up." Don't freelance! Use the manual. Get it right. A correctly engineered Body of believers is an awesome force in a dying world.
Friday, May 2, 2008
Solomon In His Splendor
I had the opportunity to drive Hwy 80 East of Dallas on my way to work today. I was reminded of Jesus' words from Matthew 6 regarding the flowers of the field. You'll recall He said we should not worry because the wild flowers don't labor or make clothes; yet Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
I saw yellow flowers beside that ribbon of highway that went on for miles, brighter than the sunlight it seemed. I saw pink flowers, literally hundreds of thousands in the median between Forney and Dallas and they reminded me of my exquisite bride long ago dressed in pink as soft as angel hair. I saw blue and purple, red and orange, a multitude of colors and hues, and they were ablaze with life and health.
I am reminded of how we ought to live; for He will do much more for us than He does for the flowers of the field. We need only "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you." (Matthew 6:33)
Don't worry about tomorrow, just see the beauty today.
I saw yellow flowers beside that ribbon of highway that went on for miles, brighter than the sunlight it seemed. I saw pink flowers, literally hundreds of thousands in the median between Forney and Dallas and they reminded me of my exquisite bride long ago dressed in pink as soft as angel hair. I saw blue and purple, red and orange, a multitude of colors and hues, and they were ablaze with life and health.
I am reminded of how we ought to live; for He will do much more for us than He does for the flowers of the field. We need only "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you." (Matthew 6:33)
Don't worry about tomorrow, just see the beauty today.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Just Preach the Word
A couple of paragraphs from Associated Press reported:
An angry Obama told reporters yesterday he was "outraged" by what he called a "performance" by Jeremiah Wright at the National Press Club in Washington on Monday and added that he was "saddened by the spectacle."
Wright used the forum to reiterate some of his charges against the U.S. government, including his suggestion that the government invented the AIDS virus to destroy "people of color."
Here's what I told my preacher (hope he was listening!). First, you are not in the "performance" business. There is way too much performance in the Church of Jesus Christ now. Just stop it. No "performance!" Secondly, we don't need any "spectacles." Just do what you have been called to do. Preach the Word of God. Do it with clarity, do it with consistency, do it with compassion. You have no calling to "suggest" anything about Government (except what the Bible teaches about our obedience to law), so do your JOB. Just do your job!
An angry Obama told reporters yesterday he was "outraged" by what he called a "performance" by Jeremiah Wright at the National Press Club in Washington on Monday and added that he was "saddened by the spectacle."
Wright used the forum to reiterate some of his charges against the U.S. government, including his suggestion that the government invented the AIDS virus to destroy "people of color."
Here's what I told my preacher (hope he was listening!). First, you are not in the "performance" business. There is way too much performance in the Church of Jesus Christ now. Just stop it. No "performance!" Secondly, we don't need any "spectacles." Just do what you have been called to do. Preach the Word of God. Do it with clarity, do it with consistency, do it with compassion. You have no calling to "suggest" anything about Government (except what the Bible teaches about our obedience to law), so do your JOB. Just do your job!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Where's Dad?
"Miley Cyrus apologized to fans April 27, 2008 for photographs taken by famed photographer Annie Liebovitz for Vanity Fair magazine, which Cyrus now says 'embarrassed' her."
I don't know this child (she's 15) and I have never seen "Hanna Montana." In fact, I don't even know what it is - or is about. But I have seen her picture displayed all over the place - the one mentioned above - and my question is, "where is dad or mom?"
Fame, fortune, popularity - all more important than protecting our children, stemming the sewer of teen nudity, crimes against children, pornography, child prostitution, etc., etc. Yes, I know it's ugly and not something we want to think or talk about. I don't know that this particular picture is lewd, or even distasteful - only that she is 15! 15! "Dad, Mom - c'mon!"
I don't know this child (she's 15) and I have never seen "Hanna Montana." In fact, I don't even know what it is - or is about. But I have seen her picture displayed all over the place - the one mentioned above - and my question is, "where is dad or mom?"
Fame, fortune, popularity - all more important than protecting our children, stemming the sewer of teen nudity, crimes against children, pornography, child prostitution, etc., etc. Yes, I know it's ugly and not something we want to think or talk about. I don't know that this particular picture is lewd, or even distasteful - only that she is 15! 15! "Dad, Mom - c'mon!"
Monday, April 28, 2008
This Is The Day!
I hope you have a song in your heart. I don't mean one from the radio or your latest CD, but one that God has placed there. The Psalmist said, "Hallelujah! How good it is to sing to our God, for praise is pleasant and lovely."
It's a beautiful day where I am. I am surrounded by wonderful people. I am clear in my understanding that "the Lord values those who fear Him, those who put heir hope in His faithful llove."
I've been talking a lot lately about all the things that are wrong in life. But, lots of things are just right. . .and getting better. I have a song in my heart, I have the joy of my salvation, and I see the Spirit of God at work in our lives producing llove, joy, peace, and all the other fruit that are products of His presence.
Hallelujah!
It's a beautiful day where I am. I am surrounded by wonderful people. I am clear in my understanding that "the Lord values those who fear Him, those who put heir hope in His faithful llove."
I've been talking a lot lately about all the things that are wrong in life. But, lots of things are just right. . .and getting better. I have a song in my heart, I have the joy of my salvation, and I see the Spirit of God at work in our lives producing llove, joy, peace, and all the other fruit that are products of His presence.
Hallelujah!
Friday, April 25, 2008
End Times in the United States
There was a time when you could practice your religion, or be a Bible-believing Christian, or get a fair shake from the police. Are all three of these quotes from various news sources related?
Three detectives were acquitted of all charges Friday in the 50-shot killing of an unarmed groom-to-be on his wedding day. (Officer) Oliver squeezed off 31 shots; (Officer) Isnora fired 11 rounds; and (Officer)Cooper shot four times.
The truth emerged when the smoke cleared: There was no weapon inside Bell's blood-splattered car.
Three detectives were acquitted of all charges Friday in the 50-shot killing of an unarmed groom-to-be on his wedding day. (Officer) Oliver squeezed off 31 shots; (Officer) Isnora fired 11 rounds; and (Officer)Cooper shot four times.
The truth emerged when the smoke cleared: There was no weapon inside Bell's blood-splattered car.
Last week, the 3rd U.S Circuit Court of Appeals told Marcus Borden he cannot participate in prayer with his players, including bowing his head or bending a knee. The court ruled the East Brunswick High School coach, who has prayed with his team for 23 years, was promoting or endorsing religion.
Emotions were frayed Thursday as tots from the FLDS polygamous clan were torn from their mothers in the biggest custody case in Texas history.
Is our nation out of control? Have we moved so far from God and our Nation's history of the absolute sovereignty of human rights that these kinds of things are becoming more and more commonplace? Is it possible that laws were broken in these matters? Yes (though it is hard to see in the second quote). But our response to law breaking is supposed to be careful, deliberate, due process, and always with an eye toward mercy. We don't need to shoot unarmed men till our 15 shot mag has been emptied twice. We don't need to punish those who are protected by the Constitution of the United States because someone might be offended, and separating mothers and children, when no one even expects that those "tots" are being abused, just because we "feel" that something "might" happen when they become teenagers, is beyond the boundaries of law and order.
We are facing a Godless society. Don't expect that to be pretty. When we act like there is no God, no Truth, no Justice, no Mercy, don't be surprised at the outcome.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Missing Something
Last night in Bible Study the preacher was talking about how important it is that our life exhibit the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22) because that is the proof of the presence of God's Spirit dwelling in us (Romans 8:1-11).
Afterwards I heard someone say to him that he needed to repeat those things on Sunday, and it got me to thinking. Some of us just won't miss an episode of our favorite show on TV if it is humanly possible. But just in case we do, there are "summer re-runs" and we can watch for the one we missed.
It is unfortunate that we would miss the teaching of God's Word at Church for some lesser thing (often one of those TV shows), especially when it only happens two or three times a week at best. Here is the most important, vital, life-giving resource in the World and we are just too busy to give an hour or two to its pursuit. Be that as it may, here's my solution:
Summer re-runs! Beginning in June and running thru August -- the preacher will just re-run what he taught during the previous months. Maybe he could just play the CD's through the sound system on Sunday morning and evening and he could take the summer off for lots of fishing and traveling. You could show-up for what you missed. I think the preacher is going to like this a lot! I am not sure how God is going to like it. . .but lots of folks don't care much about that in the first place.
Afterwards I heard someone say to him that he needed to repeat those things on Sunday, and it got me to thinking. Some of us just won't miss an episode of our favorite show on TV if it is humanly possible. But just in case we do, there are "summer re-runs" and we can watch for the one we missed.
It is unfortunate that we would miss the teaching of God's Word at Church for some lesser thing (often one of those TV shows), especially when it only happens two or three times a week at best. Here is the most important, vital, life-giving resource in the World and we are just too busy to give an hour or two to its pursuit. Be that as it may, here's my solution:
Summer re-runs! Beginning in June and running thru August -- the preacher will just re-run what he taught during the previous months. Maybe he could just play the CD's through the sound system on Sunday morning and evening and he could take the summer off for lots of fishing and traveling. You could show-up for what you missed. I think the preacher is going to like this a lot! I am not sure how God is going to like it. . .but lots of folks don't care much about that in the first place.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
State May Be Oversteping Bounds in FLDS Case
I plan to make this my last comment on this matter. It's a "no-win" argument no matter how it goes. There are many issues here including parental rights, religious freedom, deprivation of freedom without due process of law, and others.
Michelle Roberts, AP writer, reported, "with a court order signed Tuesday, about a quarter of the children were moved from the San Angelo Coliseum, loaded onto buses and taken to foster care facilities around the city and elsewhere. By week's end, all 437 children are likely to be scattered across the state in 16 facilities."
Here's an idea. Why not send these kids "home." If the Court is concerned that they are going to be abused during the sorting our of this mess, assign CPS workers, Deputy Sheriffs, Constables, foster care parents, or any responsible persons, for that matter, to the compound to monitor all this abuse that is supposedly occurring.
These people should not lose their kids without due process of law. Don't tell me they will get due process in the next months or (more likely) years while the kids are carted off to a life they don't understand, shuffled through a system that has never been accused of adequacy, and denied the security of their homes and families without seemingly (and the outsider has only the words of the Media) any PROOF that they are being abused. I think we can rest assured that if any proof existed the Media would have it exposed it by now with great relish.
I repeat (see my first publication on this matter), if there is actual abuse of anybody, prosecute the perpetrators. We have laws - enforce them. But this. . .this seems almost, in my opinion, like the abuse is being carried out by the Court.
Michelle Roberts, AP writer, reported, "with a court order signed Tuesday, about a quarter of the children were moved from the San Angelo Coliseum, loaded onto buses and taken to foster care facilities around the city and elsewhere. By week's end, all 437 children are likely to be scattered across the state in 16 facilities."
Here's an idea. Why not send these kids "home." If the Court is concerned that they are going to be abused during the sorting our of this mess, assign CPS workers, Deputy Sheriffs, Constables, foster care parents, or any responsible persons, for that matter, to the compound to monitor all this abuse that is supposedly occurring.
These people should not lose their kids without due process of law. Don't tell me they will get due process in the next months or (more likely) years while the kids are carted off to a life they don't understand, shuffled through a system that has never been accused of adequacy, and denied the security of their homes and families without seemingly (and the outsider has only the words of the Media) any PROOF that they are being abused. I think we can rest assured that if any proof existed the Media would have it exposed it by now with great relish.
I repeat (see my first publication on this matter), if there is actual abuse of anybody, prosecute the perpetrators. We have laws - enforce them. But this. . .this seems almost, in my opinion, like the abuse is being carried out by the Court.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
It's A Miracle
My Grandfather died in 1942. He was a man who collected various items and when my Grandmother died about 30 years ago, I picked up a few things from their home in Dallas. I did not pay much attention to some of it, it seems like there was little if any value to many of the items.
I do remember one very old little box that was half full of watch parts. My Dad told me that Granddad had tinkered with watches on occasion and had thrown the parts and pieces of various models into that box. I'm guessing those part had been in there for over 75 or 80 years.
Yesterday, I went to my study at home to find a particular book I needed, and in moving some things around I found that old box. I opened it slowly and carefully and found the shock of my life! There, surrounded by a few left over parts was a very inexpensive, simple, Timex. It was certainly no chronograph, and had none of the bells and whistles of today's fine watches, there was no band, but it was running, and although the time on it's face was wrong, and of course there was no second hand, when I put it to my ear, I could hear the tiny sound of a real watch.
Can you imagine how Granddad would react today, not knowing that those little wheels and springs and tiny screws would someday become a time piece. He would have been so proud of his collection.
I guess it's time to modify my thinking about the origin of life. I mean, this find changes everything!
I do remember one very old little box that was half full of watch parts. My Dad told me that Granddad had tinkered with watches on occasion and had thrown the parts and pieces of various models into that box. I'm guessing those part had been in there for over 75 or 80 years.
Yesterday, I went to my study at home to find a particular book I needed, and in moving some things around I found that old box. I opened it slowly and carefully and found the shock of my life! There, surrounded by a few left over parts was a very inexpensive, simple, Timex. It was certainly no chronograph, and had none of the bells and whistles of today's fine watches, there was no band, but it was running, and although the time on it's face was wrong, and of course there was no second hand, when I put it to my ear, I could hear the tiny sound of a real watch.
Can you imagine how Granddad would react today, not knowing that those little wheels and springs and tiny screws would someday become a time piece. He would have been so proud of his collection.
I guess it's time to modify my thinking about the origin of life. I mean, this find changes everything!
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Avenger
For government is God’s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong.
Romans 13:4b
Reading this verse, and those that surround it, over and over again I can’t help but believe that Government is supposed to be “good.” Obviously, for Government to be good, the people who make up its organization must be good people. Sometimes I have real doubts about that.
So much of what we see today in the Congress (House of Representatives and Senate) is really discouraging. Politics (which has nothing to do with good Government) takes up almost all of the time and effort, and little of real value appears to be accomplished.
Unfortunately that does not give the Believer an option about being “subject to the governing authorities.” (Romans 13:1) Paul, the Apostle, reminds us that there is no authority except from God, and that all authority that exists is appointed by God.
That is why it is so important to be informed, and actively involved in the process established by our Government to elect people to offices in that Government. Ignorance in relationship to issues, and the policies and procedures of Government operation is inexcusable. For a believer to say, “I just don’t want to get involved,” is to make excuse which ultimately leads to bad or poor Government.
When Godly men and women are reluctant to stand up for what is right (the Bible is clear about what is and is not right), unwilling to oppose corruption and vice, and choose not to take the time necessary to support morality in the Governmental sphere, we are simply allowing evil to prevail. Knowing the voting records of those who represent the people of the United States and those who represent us in our individual State is mandatory. That information is easily obtained, and candidates for public office must be held to the highest standards of honesty, decency, and what is arguably “right and good” for the people they represent.
I believe this year, 2008, is a pivotal year for the future of our Republic as we know it. Do not sit on the sidelines. Get in the know. Get to the voting booth. The quality of our Government depends on it.
Romans 13:4b
Reading this verse, and those that surround it, over and over again I can’t help but believe that Government is supposed to be “good.” Obviously, for Government to be good, the people who make up its organization must be good people. Sometimes I have real doubts about that.
So much of what we see today in the Congress (House of Representatives and Senate) is really discouraging. Politics (which has nothing to do with good Government) takes up almost all of the time and effort, and little of real value appears to be accomplished.
Unfortunately that does not give the Believer an option about being “subject to the governing authorities.” (Romans 13:1) Paul, the Apostle, reminds us that there is no authority except from God, and that all authority that exists is appointed by God.
That is why it is so important to be informed, and actively involved in the process established by our Government to elect people to offices in that Government. Ignorance in relationship to issues, and the policies and procedures of Government operation is inexcusable. For a believer to say, “I just don’t want to get involved,” is to make excuse which ultimately leads to bad or poor Government.
When Godly men and women are reluctant to stand up for what is right (the Bible is clear about what is and is not right), unwilling to oppose corruption and vice, and choose not to take the time necessary to support morality in the Governmental sphere, we are simply allowing evil to prevail. Knowing the voting records of those who represent the people of the United States and those who represent us in our individual State is mandatory. That information is easily obtained, and candidates for public office must be held to the highest standards of honesty, decency, and what is arguably “right and good” for the people they represent.
I believe this year, 2008, is a pivotal year for the future of our Republic as we know it. Do not sit on the sidelines. Get in the know. Get to the voting booth. The quality of our Government depends on it.
See the Movie
I don't often recommend movies - the last I recall was "The Passion of the Christ." You need to see "Expelled - No Intelligence Allowed." The Bible warns us to guard against "false knowledge," and perhaps especially this ignorance that comes with the capacity to destroy society.
When the academic community reaches the point where it is no longer allowing students (beginners or Ph.D's) to inquire into the fields of study which move beyond the absolute embrace of the theory of Darwinian Evolution, we are on dangerous ground.
One must have irrational fears to refuse to allow inquiry into one's belief. If Darwinian Evolutionists had nothing to hide, they would welcome divergent research and opinion. Continuing to restrict students to this one philosophy, flawed as it is, can lead only to ignorance that separates men from God.
While I am a Creationist, and not a big supporter of Intelligent Design, failure to stand up for the rights of those who would seek such study, is to ultimately have no one stand up for me.
When the academic community reaches the point where it is no longer allowing students (beginners or Ph.D's) to inquire into the fields of study which move beyond the absolute embrace of the theory of Darwinian Evolution, we are on dangerous ground.
One must have irrational fears to refuse to allow inquiry into one's belief. If Darwinian Evolutionists had nothing to hide, they would welcome divergent research and opinion. Continuing to restrict students to this one philosophy, flawed as it is, can lead only to ignorance that separates men from God.
While I am a Creationist, and not a big supporter of Intelligent Design, failure to stand up for the rights of those who would seek such study, is to ultimately have no one stand up for me.
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